Mad keen 7 year old, top tips required!

[Madness60]

Need some advice from some experts or at the very least some informed opinion.

My youngest has always been into cycling but after getting used to riding a bit faster and watching bits of the Tour he has really caught the road cycling bug but is only 7 about to turn 8. He has been out with his mum, apparently that 10 miles was "so slow and boring Dad" and came out with me today and we did 15 miles at a varied (7year old energy and interest level) pace. Now he really enjoyed it, apart from one small fight with a grass verge which led to a minor fall and even this did not stop him and he wants to go out with me again!

So, he's already wanting some bike kit and asking if racing bikes are available for boys and whilst I am wary of his attention span I would really like him to enjoy cycling. Obviously when he gets faster than me the enjoyment level will change but until then any advice on bikes and things to do or not to do.

He's currently riding a basic boys mountain bike and he much prefers road to any offroading.

Cheers

Madness

Edited by Madness60 on Saturday 28th July 22:45

[snotrag]

Boys road bikes are available. Giant, Edinburgh bicycle and Decathlon do them. Drop bars, 650 wheels generally.
I bet Isla bikes might too without looking.

Tips - just keep him at it, don't force it, keep it fun.

[gary71]

Putting some slicks on his mountain bike will be a major step forward for very little outlay. I've just done the same for my son for much the same reason! We got some 24" Michelin city slicks. His idea of a gentle ride is now good exercise for me

[Madness60]

Putting the slick tyres on seems a good start and someone else mentioned putting a bike computer on but might need to emphasise to him that he needs to watch where he is going rather than just watching the speed!!

[anonymous-user]

why not head to a velodrome and speak to a local club, they might do junior training sessions etc (though expect it too be busy!) there are quite a few in the UK and its a safe environment.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_velodromes

the British Cycling website has loads of info on getting kids into cycling too.

[aclivity]

I'm in a similar situation (my boy is 9, but short for his age so a 24" bike is too big for him, cue much wailing and gnashing of teeth when he found THAT out).

I am taking him to the Manchester velodrome for a kids session in a couple of weeks time - only about £6.50.